How To Merge The SAFE Way Onto An Interstate, Highway, Or Road - Learn To Merge Into Traffic

[@katelynroy6365]

I just bought my first car and need to learn how to drive on the highway to get to school but the merging makes me so nervous. This video was very helpful and reassuring! I will keep your tips in mind when I am on the road!

[@HowSkills]

Driving on the highway can be very intimidating at first, but it’s one of those things that gets easier with practice and experience. Just try to practice at first when the highway is likely to be less busy - definitely not during rush hour. Thanks for watching and I’m sure you’ll do great!

[@notmebutyou8350]

Same here. I am a new driver and just bought mine in January of this year and just started a little freeway driving last week. I'm scared, but know it's something that I have to learn. Good luck to you!!😃

[@TheEndleader]

YOU ARE THE QUEEN! YOU GOT THIS!

[@user-qq6bi1xu2h]

AGHHH first time merging and driving on the highway was a success ! it wasn’t to bad :) don’t overthink it ! you’ll do great !

[@HowSkills]

You are so right! We're our own worst enemy sometimes and we can build it up to be worse than it is. Glad it went good for you!

[@Jacob_4D]

Boutta go drive my parents to Costco first time being on a high way wish me luck yikes.

[@HowSkills]

I understand...best of luck, and I’m sure you’ll do fine!

[@MrISkater]

@@HowSkills I think he dead

[@lizzyberg1082]

@@MrISkater hahahah sorry this is funny

[@cruiser_b9779]

He died btw

[@HowSkills]

Jacob, haven’t heard from you in months...people are fearing the worst!!!

[@EddieLeal]

Some other things to consider. Remember who has the right away when merging into highway traffic. Not every driver will have the courtesy to give you room to merge into traffic. Also, keep a safe distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. I am guilty of doing this myself from time to time and its one of the worst things one can do when driving. If they are going slower than the posted speed limit simply go around them if the road allows it and it is safe to do so. PLEASE DON'T TAILGATE! If you accelerate to get on the highway ensure you are maintaining a safe distance between you and the back of the other vehicle in front of you. . The amount of distance you should keep depends on the speed/road conditions at the time. Should there be an emergency and they hit the breaks you dont want to be so close that you will not be able to avoid a rear end collision. Majority of highway accidents tend to occur when the suddenly slows down/comes to a sudden stop. most highways have signs that warn drivers of traffic slow downs. Lastly, just because the speed limit says 75 mph it doesnt mean its always safe to do so. Stay alert! Stay alive folks! BE SAFE OUT THERE! ;)

[@HowSkills]

Thanks for sharing those thoughts and tips - you are spot on with all of them! I observe too many examples of bad and inconsiderate driving out there, so reminders like this of how to drive more safely are important for people to see.

[@AYouTubeChannelwithNoName]

I’m sorry but majority of drivers are brainless idiots so this means nothing to them 😳

[@hunterfudge2597]

I thought no one had the right of way when you merge. Like I thought it was a equal responsibility thing.

[@hunterfudge2597]

@USCmusic10 I'm Canadian.

[@justinohare297]

@@hunterfudge2597 you are correct. No one has the right of way. Merging is done when two roadways join into one and the traffic on the main roadway must cooperate to allow enough space for vehicles to enter from the merging lane. Neither the merging vehicle nor the vehicles already on the highway have the right-of-way.

[@nunyabidness380]

I drive on the highway all the time and didn’t problems merging until one day...what happened was, I was merging onto a highway, i was in the acceleration lane, and a biggggg truck was next to me. I was going to let the truck pass me then merge in the gap, but the truck was going too slow and my lane was about to end (btw i had my signal on the whole time just saying) so I decided to slam on the gas and try to cut in front of the truck. Well the truck sped up too and as I was about to merge, the truck was right next to me and gave me the loudest honk and continued driving at the same speed. Therefore, I did not merge and stayed on the shoulder and got back into traffic miraculously. I was traumatized. I almost got crushed by a big truck and the image of this truck so close to me is ingrained in my mind lol. So lucky there was no accident. I still drive on the highway but I try my best to avoid rush.

[@HowSkills]

That’s a bad situation that rarely happens, but it’s dangerous when it does. Sounds like the truck driver wasn’t paying attention or was just being a jerk. Truck drivers are usually some of the best at letting other drivers merge into traffic, but not in this case. Glad it didn’t end in an accident.

[@blackericdenice]

The only thing a person on the hwy need to do is leave space for you to merge. Especially large trucks. It is much easier to speed up 3000 pound car, than it is to slow down a 35,000 truck.

[@HowSkills]

You are so right about that. My father was a truck driver his whole life, and had several awards for safe driving. He was also a courteous driver, and he would do all he could to make space for merging vehicles, but the merging vehicles have to be the ones to speed up or slow down to get into a gap in the traffic. Large trucks can’t speed up or slow down quickly. Thanks for the comment.

[@HANSMKAMP]

For the other drivers: If you are on a highway, you have priority, but you should look what traffic are arriving onto the highway. There are many trucks, especially on the highway in my neighborhood (I live in Enschede, and the nearby highway is a highway that connects Amsterdam with Berlin, Warsaw and Moscow), sometimes even more trucks than other cars. If I see a truck arriving, I will look whether I can move to the left lane, to give the truck driver some space. If I can't, I slow down. I hope the traffic behind me will do the same.

[@blackericdenice]

@@HANSMKAMP In America, you are not suppose to slow down to let trucks or cars merge. If someone behind run into you and they have a witness who saw you slow down to let a truck or car merge. You will get the ticket.

[@aaron.0303]

When I was 16-17, merging onto a busy Interstate at night was the scariest thing ever. I actually came to the end of the merge lane and had to STOP on the shoulder and wait for a clearing for me to get on the road, lol.

[@HowSkills]

I know the feeling! Learning to merge is hard enough in the daytime and definitely harder at night. It all gets easier with time and practice.

[@GhostPrime21]

For on ramps that have redlights: Launch control for the best merge :)

[@Bestofshowaudio]

I’ve almost been in numerous collisions with other drivers trying to merge onto the interstate. It’s not always possible for other drivers to move over to let you merge onto the interstate. You ALWAYS need to turn your head and visibly look at your blind spot to see if it is clear.

[@pokedude104]

highways are always the most intimidating to new drivers but I find people tend to be better behaved on the highways than they are on the city streets. They have good incentive to help you out while merging because even if they are inclined to be a jerk and block you off, they are still a human with the innate urge of self preservation and getting side swiped at 70mph is an easy way to a very bad day.

[@OayxYT]

I almost got into a crash merging on an interstate, so yea that’s why I’m here

[@HowSkills]

Glad it was an "almost", and I hope this video helps make sure you never get into an accident!

[@tikaroxanne7286]

Me too 😭

[@arlsss_]

@@tikaroxanne7286 just happened to me today too almost! 😳

[@FidgetBoss4000]

fucking same 😳😳

[@solomonmayes]

I’m just about to turn 16 and am finishing up my last two behind the wheel lessons. I wouldn’t normally look up things like this but I’m glad I did! You were very soothing and calming! Thank you

[@HowSkills]

Happy to help, and thank you for watching!

[@KevinGomeskvz1990]

Great video, it looks like you have a very long road & time to catch up the speed & merge into traffic, but what do we do if we are merging into a parkway from a ramp that gave me only 30 feet to merge onto traffic & speed limit of the road is 50mph which means I will be changing my lanes from a full-stop to a merging lane of 50mph, I’m talking about new york city !!

[@erolynbeachside2477]

Wow somebody that actually seems to know how to drive. impressive. lots of well deserved likes.

[@HowSkills]

Thanks for the comment and for watching!

[@kendragreene5953]

THANKS FOR THIS!!🎉 Watching this is giving me the confidence to drive on the highway. You explained it so well and it was very easy to understand!

[@HowSkills]

Glad to hear that it helped! I’m sure you’ll do great on the highway. Take care and drive safe!

[@kendragreene5953]

@@HowSkills thank you so much!

[@allisonkrug9759]

I drove on a highway with my dad for the first time today and it wasn’t as scary as I thought it would be.

[@HowSkills]

That's awesome! You're a better driver that you thought you were.

[@neuideas]

At 2:44 you are in a perfect merging position. You should now be matching the truck's speed while you merge, because in most cases, the driver of that truck cannot see you. Instead, you choose to pass him on the right while merging. This puts you in a precarious position where, if he, at that moment, decides to change lanes to the right, he can potentially collide with your vehicle. Ideally, you would match his speed while you stay on his rear right flank, until you are fully merged. If you wish to accelerate beyond that point, it is generally safer to pass on his left rather than his right. If you choose to pass on the right anyway, that's fine, as long as it's clearly safe to do so. Merging into the side of an adjacent driver is not a good practice, even if it's not a big rig. Alternately, you could accelerate more aggressively and merge ahead of the truck. There is space to do this safely. You would then be merging next to a completely clear space, rather than right next to a tandem rig.

[@neuideas]

At 6:46 you merged perfectly. The car carrier in the middle lane was properly accounted for while you merged, and if he had suddenly chosen to change lanes to the right, you would have been safe to merge regardless.

[@chrisstian5729]

Some drivers on the interstate will not move over to the left lane, if they can, to allow merging traffic. They will just stare forward as you are riding in the emergency lane trying to get onto the interstate.....

[@Tajah8145]

This was so helpful! With the different camera angles, I felt like I was right there with you in the car. Thanks!

[@HowSkills]

You’re very welcome, and thanks for watching!

[@bayareakid4775]

Oh it's you again. Lol. I just commented on one of your other videos. I like your teaching skills. About merging. Again. Alot of merging ramps & structures can be different animals & you have to drive accordingly & use judgment. But the one that kills me is the time on a very short entrance ramp, and you have to be very careful on that one, I was already checking my mirrors and the nearest traffic was hundreds of feet away. This guy in front of me came to a complete stop! Sat there, then proceeded to enter the interstate at 20 mph! I was able to enter after him ( that's how far away the nearest traffic was), I looked at him incredulously, then gunned the engine to not only get up to safe cruising speed, but get away from a driver who clearly needs to go back to auto school & learn how to enter an interstate or highway correctly.

[@HowSkills]

Wow! It's such a bad idea to stop on an entrance ramp, although there are times when extremely heavy traffic could make it impossible to merge. But since that wasn't the case here...what was he thinking?!?

[@bayareakid4775]

@@HowSkills Amazing isn't it? I don't know how some people out here have licenses.

[@GoaWay...]

I feel like this is the most helpful video on highway merging that I have watched so far. 😊 Thanks.

[@HowSkills]

Glad it helped...thank you for watching!

[@brilliantoffensivemind6596]

Thank you so much for this video. I got my license back in August, but I’ve only stuck to local roads, so I don’t have too much experience on larger roads. To make matters worse I live in North Jersey, and the highways here are literally hell. I ended up driving on the NJ Turnpike with my dad a couple of days ago and everything went pretty well, all thanks to you (along with my dad giving me some pointers haha). Thank you again for this video, really appreciate it man.

[@HowSkills]

Glad it helped, and I'm sure your dad was really the one who made all the difference! Thanks for watching!

[@brightlife3177]

This the best tutorial I have seen so far .Thanks man

[@HowSkills]

You’re definitely welcome, and I always hope the videos help someone.

[@TheOneBadAssGamer]

its pretty bad i've been driving for 6 years but dont have the best vision so the highway always freaked me out. now im looking at moving from mass to idaho, and i dont want to leave my dog behind or fly with him. so im thinking about driving cross country this video has helped calm my nerves. definitely going to do some practicing before hand.

[@HowSkills]

Great idea about the practice. I think it really helps if you try to pick a time of day to practice when it’s less busy. I’m glad you won’t be making it alone and you’ll have your dog with you. Dogs can be great at calming nerves too. Take care, and I’m sure you’ll do fine on the drive!

[@lilxaznxvietxgirl]

This part I knew about merging into freeway. I'm working on getting my driver's license. I kind of know how to drive.

[@HowSkills]

That’s very good to hear. This is something that comes natural to some people, but can be very intimidating to others. Thank you for your comment, and drive safe!

[@jeremeytaylor2433]

When i first started driving years ago I was afraid of the interstate. After a couple years of interstate driving I found it is actually safer then a regular 2 lane road. everyone is going in the same direction only at higher speeds. Just pay attention to what is going on behind you and you will be fine

[@GmaGpaAdventures]

Jeremey Taylor I totally agree with you. Once you get used to it, driving on the interstate can actually be a safer experience than traveling on regular roads.

[@aa-tx7th]

when youre driving on the interstate; 1. stay out of the rightmost lane unless youre a half mile or less from your exit. 2. if youre in the leftmost lane you should be driving faster than everyone else. 3. stay in the center lane(s) for 95% of the time you spend on the interstate.

[@jpmccormac]

Entering from the right into the acceleration lane is easier than entering from the LEFT into the acceleration lane. This isn't a common entry to an interstate but I've had some hairy close calls entering from the left. I think other drivers don't expect a car entering the roadway from the left, plus the left lane traffic tends to be moving faster. It's also a bit more difficult to turn your head and spot a car to your right as you enter from the left. Make sense? Thanks for the tips.

[@HowSkills]

Yes, I've experienced a few of those, and it's an awkward feeling coming in from that side! I'm glad those are the exception and not the rule - I feel like there would be more accidents due to exactly the reasons you mentioned. Great observation, and thanks for watching.

[@Critique808]

I learned in drivers ed that the right lane is the slow lane because it is for exiting and merging. Left lane is the fast lane.

[@andreacmcp2014]

Well I got my driving license one week ago, and i drove the turnpike with my father. Today i gonna try to drive the I95 Miami - Jensen Beach. Kind of nervous.

[@HowSkills]

Awesome - I’m sure you’ll do great! Those are some good driving experiences to already get to do. Might seem a little intimidating, but it’s important to get comfortable driving on those types of roads. I’ve driven on I-95 to Miami before and it can be a learning experience in a lot of ways!

[@Ashley-wd1wm]

Great tips for new drivers ,, thank you

[@HowSkills]

I hope it helps somebody out there...thanks for watching!

[@inyobill]

Technical clarification: Not necessarily accelerate to highway limit, but rather to speed of traffic you're merging with, Small criticism. Edit: of course, you discuss this exact point later in the video. I wish everyone would follow your advice. Drivers on the highway largely don't have a requirement to aid traffic merging on, but it makes life easier for everyone when they do. My motto is that if I'm in too much of a rush to give a citizen a break, then I'm in too much of a rush.

[@HowSkills]

Thank you for the comment, and your motto is a good one…too many people aren’t willing to give a citizen a break, and that’s when accidents can happen.

[@josevalverde2263]

Tha`ks.You are great help.I am driving to Texas.

[@HowSkills]

Thanks for watching, and hope all went well on your trip to Texas.

[@realmisr]

Thanks so much, Stan. This is so helpful! Do you have a video addressing how to merge if there is a tiny (short) acceleration ramp or no acceleration ramp? I've unfortunately experienced both...having a long acceleration ramp is such a blessing as far as safety goes...

[@HowSkills]

I don't have a specific video related to a short acceleration ramp, but that would be a good one to make. There is a big difference between the two types of ramps and the amount of time you have to merge. I will put that on my list of videos to make!

[@SugaGum]

Awesome video!!

[@HowSkills]

I hope it helped!

[@colombiiansteez]

I’m 23 and just got my license and started driving, I’m scared of going on the highway because of having to merge and also having to accelerate and merge in when getting on :( because what if no one ever gives me a change to go in, I was told that I can’t stop

[@HowSkills]

You definitely don’t want to have to stop while you’re on the on-ramp to get on a highway. That could cause problems for anyone that would be accelerating behind you who’s also trying to enter the roadway. Make every effort to adjust your speed as you’re trying to merge so you can move over into a gap in the traffic. But...if all else fails, yes, pull over and stop if it means preventing an accident and injury to yourself or others! Sometimes there’s no other alternative. And if you have to stop, make sure you pull over as far to the side as you can and get out of the way of other vehicles. Pull out and attempt to merge when you see a very large gap coming up, and accelerate quickly to get up to the speed limit or the speed of the traffic.

[@Keotaka0619]

I got my license at 23 too! Glad i'm not the only one getting it late!

[@brittanyfrank5024]

Stan Cravens l

[@aa-tx7th]

lol i just got mine at 37

[@donnacish]

good job honey!!!

[@HowSkills]

Thanks - I hope it helps someone!

[@pikegabaza1556]

Great video mate. Educative

[@yimingzhang2484]

Best tutorial video about merging on youtube! Others don’t really talk about what to do in different situations in real world, like what if you fail to merge before the end of the acceleration lane. Thank you Stan!

[@HowSkills]

Thanks a lot for watching! I always hope to give some useful advice that helps in the real world.

[@LuyaoXiao-hm4ss]

very useful! exactly what i want to know about the extreme situation!

[@vervanwilliams]

Good luck I got my learners doing driving lessons so just drive careful

[@MinaParkArt]

so helpful thank you

[@HowSkills]

You're welcome, and I appreciate you watching the video!

[@purnimapradhan5715]

Helpful video, thank you so much for sharing this video!!

[@HowSkills]

Glad it was helpful, and thank you very much for watching.

[@JAPelicano1]

There are a handful of TINY acceleration lanes when entering highways in my city. I'm talking you have about 5 seconds max to enter or you're back on the interstate/highway you've just exited.

[@HowSkills]

That's a poor design...creates an unsafe condition, with little time to find a gap and merge. Stay safe!

[@ToOpen6seven]

@@HowSkills Do you have videos for the example Amanda P. stated above? What are your tips and tricks in those situations?

[@ussgrissom]

Very helpful.

[@HowSkills]

Glad to hear that, and thank you for watching!

[@nikovia1943]

THANK YOU! GOD BLESS YOU!

[@HowSkills]

You're welcome! I hope it helped.

[@nedie4505]

I like how you speak,,,,, clear and not fast thank u for the info and tips. watching ur video it seems so easy but my god it so scary and im so nervous doing this.

[@HowSkills]

You're welcome, and I appreciate you taking the time to watch. Merging isn't always easy, and everytime can be a little different depending on the amount and type of traffic that's out there. That's why it's best to try and find a time of day to practice when traffic is normally the lightest. Practice and experience helps get rid of the nervousness. Keep at it, and you'll just keep getting better at it. Take care!

[@nedie4505]

@@HowSkills been watching your video sir

[@temperhollow7716]

This is very helpful but what do you do when there is no space to enter the freeway?

[@HowSkills]

In the very worst case, you have to pull over on the side of the road and stop. The you need to wait for a large gap so you can get out onto the roadway. Stopping on the acceleration ramp or on the shoulder of the road is a last resort, but sometimes it’s the only choice.

[@juanangcanada6183]

Thanks for sharing your video stay safe and connected

[@HowSkills]

Thank you for watching. I really appreciate it!

[@justadumb8864]

I'm about to drive on the highway for the first time 😨 I'm terrified of merging. I'll let you know how it goes

[@justadumb8864]

I didn't die :D

[@grace9649]

@@justadumb8864 that’s good

[@HowSkills]

Haha! Somehow, I knew you'd make it...great job! Keep practicing, and it'll soon become second nature to you.

[@Inquietuss]

FYI big trucks can't speed up and never do when merging or getting off the highway. Be safe out there everyone

[@frankuwakwe1158]

I love your teaching Sir. Many thanks

[@HowSkills]

You’re welcome...I always hope I can be of help to someone.

[@surdillapeter5332]

Really helpful. Thanks

[@HowSkills]

You're welcome!

[@tomaiken903]

Great Video Stan. 🤘

[@HowSkills]

Thanks, Tom! I hope it helps some people.

[@dareal_deeblock]

Well, I'm about to drive my mom to my grandmother's house on the interstate, so wish me luck! :)

[@HowSkills]

I’m probably a little late in wishing you good luck, but I’m sure you did great, and the more you do it the more relaxed you’ll become. Keep putting in the practice.

[@Mohsine-rf4zf]

Very interesting video. Thanks a lot bro

[@ColdForceNorse]

Doing highway for the first time tomorrow 😁

[@HowSkills]

That’s great! Try not to stress about it, remember what you’ve read/watched about how to do it, and focus on finding a gap and getting your vehicle up to the speed of the traffic you’re merging with. You’re gonna do good!

[@ColdForceNorse]

@@HowSkills Thank you Stan, very helpful! I subscribed 😁

[@kholoodalmaskeen7073]

can you do a video on how to 90 degree reverse park please ?

[@GmaGpaAdventures]

Great idea. I will actually work on that!

[@emikohearon3511]

This video helped me a lot! Thank you very much for posting. Wish me luck for my road test this Thursday

[@HowSkills]

I’m very glad it helped! Good luck, and I’m certain you will do good on your road test.

[@babeen94]

great lesson to a novice driver. thanks

[@HowSkills]

You’re welcome, and thanks for caring enough about being a safe driver to watch a video like this!

[@atriacharya2967]

Thanks a lot, sir!! I'm learning to drive on some of the bigger roads, outside urban areas. Love from Kolkata, India.

[@HowSkills]

You’re very welcome, and I’m sure you will do well driving on the bigger roads. It’s a very good sign that you’re watching videos on how to become a better driver...that shows you care about doing your best. You live in a very big city!

[@Carmelobrian]

Thanks a lot for this video. I just got my first car and merging is something I’m still not comfortable with

[@HowSkills]

Congratulations on getting your first car! That’s a great feeling. Driving skills, like merging, develop with time and practice - you’ll get there!

[@emmeling.4914]

This is cool. Thanks!

[@HowSkills]

You’re welcome! I hope it helped!

[@estherkaruga5520]

Very good and clear instructions 👌

[@HowSkills]

Thank you for watching, and I hope it helped!

[@lizzyberg1082]

Beautiful job sir

[@HowSkills]

Thank you for watching!

[@lizzyberg1082]

@@HowSkills that was one of the most detailed video!

[@catBoi_Finnbjorn]

The yellow RAMP speed limit signs are 'Recommended Speed' and not a speed limit. These are indicators to help trucks so they know to slow so they don't tip over. Most vehicles are much more capable of faster speed and you are allowed to go full highway speed (assuming you have a vehicle capable of cornering that fast) on the ramps. You'll notice there's no speed limit sign after the 'RAMP 25' sign telling you the speed limit has changed, this is because the yellow ramp signs are not speed limits, just recommendations. Most traffic is going to take them about 35+, yet there are still those who think it's a limit and are afraid of getting a ticket so they slow down waaay to much. I like to corner quickly but I'm normally just waiting behind an SUV that has to slow down🙃 Some interchange ramps curve quite sharply and have signage in white with 'Speed limit' to indicate a real change. Some trucks won't see or notice these signs and they tip over because they're going 70 and not 50mph.

[@viksinha5410]

I got my learner's permit a little while ago, so this will really help me

[@HowSkills]

It’s an important driving skill to learn and I’m sure you’ll do great!

[@ivanflores5345]

Brake check the semi-truck behind you😃👍

[@chiefzackery6651]

I’m an Uber eats and and DoorDash driver, so I have THOUSANDS of miles driving experience. I’ve tried driving in Atlanta before and was just totally terrified when trying to merge onto I85 in the city, it felt like there was no space for me and I had to come to a complete stop until I got a burst of luck and merged. I have driven in Charlotte and thought it is stressful, I’m able to manage it. Do you have any advice with how to deal with that level of rush hour 70-80 MPH traffic for an experienced driver?

[@HowSkills]

Atlanta is a challenging place to drive in during rush hour, or reallt anytime! I've done it a few times, and the best advice I could give would be to make sure you're accelerating sufficiently so that you'll match the speed of the traffic by the time you get to the part of the road where you could possibly merge. Put on your signal early, and continually glance over at the traffic to locate a gap while you're gaining speed. Most of the time, if the other drivers see you coming soon enough, they'll speed up or move over to let you in. That's one reason you should signal early: that flashing light is a way to get their attention. And I would welcome other comments on this if they have some suggestions for you.

[@rosehinds8853]

Thanks

[@HowSkills]

You're very welcome.

[@harry4716]

Thank you for Posting this. It is very helpful for me

[@HowSkills]

You're very welcome! And thank you for watching!

[@elevatorfan125]

One piece of advice: if there are 3 lanes going in each direction, drive in the middle lane so that you are out of the way of drivers getting on and off the interstate and drivers that want to either go faster than you or pass you

[@Shari95]

thank u

[@livingunashamed4869]

Much needed thanks! Best merging vid out there.

[@HowSkills]

Thank you very much for watching!

[@kiaramereghetti7534]

Thank you so much for this! Could you please clarify how to proceed when entering Interstates or Freeways with a Yield sign at the end of the ramp? And could you explain the difference between an entrance with a Yield sign and one w/o? We must yield to highway traffic before merging at all times so what's the difference? We also need to use the ramp to accelerate to match highway traffic in order to be able to merge safely so seeing a Yield sign at the end of a ramp at times confuses me - I also know that it is dangerous to drive too slow on an entrance ramp / stop before/when entering ( unless obviously highway traffic isn't moving) - so if traffic IS moving and there is a Yield sign at the end of the ramp do we slow down and Yield or accelerate to high way spewd to merge? I just need some clarity on this! Thank you

[@HowSkills]

You're right...there really is no difference in practice when merging onto a highway/interstate whether there's a Yield sign at the end of the on-ramp or not. The vehicles already on the highway have the right-of-way, so you have to accelerate up to the speed of the traffic, or the speed limit, in order to safely merge with them. A Yield sign at the end of an on-ramp is redundant and doesn't change the proper procedures for merging.

[@kiaramereghetti7534]

Thank you so much for your reply and for clarifying:) @@HowSkills

[@sarahwmwangi8351]

S- signal A-Accelerate F-Find a spot E-Enter the lane Important

[@HowSkills]

It works for me!

[@sarahh2072]

I can't tell if the gaps are big enough or not though

[@HowSkills]

That is something that gets easier with practice, but I know what you mean. It can be difficult to judge a gap while accelerating and trying to merge. I would recommend that you practice merging with an experienced driver in the vehicle with you, and allow them to help you judge whether the gap you're considering moving into is big enough and if your speed is sufficient to safely pull into the gap. You can learn to judge gaps better by the feedback someone else can give you.

[@quanbrooklynkid7776]

do you do driving lessons. nd how much because u seem like a cool person to learn from,

[@HowSkills]

I appreciate your saying that, but I no longer do any driving instruction! Bet you would've been an awesome student!

[@jamesomalley5247]

When merging What if there is cars in your way Like if you signal Check mirrors Blind spot And there cars in your way Driving on regular roads When I had to merge There were lots of cars My problem is what do I do when there are cars in your lane you need to go into

[@HowSkills]

If you get towards the end of the ramp and there’s absolutely no way to get into the traffic, pull over to the side of the highway, or the on-ramp, as far as you can, and put your flashers on. Then wait until you see an opening coming, put on your turn signal to alert traffic, and then accelerate quickly onto the highway. Sometimes this situation does occur, often because there are vehicles running side by side at the point where you’re trying to merge, so they can’t get over for you.

[@eliheitland568]

Great tips Thanks alot!

[@HowSkills]

You’re welcome...and thank you for watching!

[@elevatorfan125]

Vehicles already on the interstate have the right-of-way

[@fandechavalones3022]

What is a good gap for turning left or turning right ?

[@lizzyberg1082]

I'm a new driver and can't make speed faster and check for upcoming cars at the same time what do I do

[@HowSkills]

This definitely takes practice in order to get comfortable with the procedure. Your first concern is accelerating your vehicle up to the speed of the traffic. You don’t need to keep looking at your speedometer because what really matters is that you are trying to match the speed of your vehicle to the speed of the traffic that you’ll be merging into. (The speed of the traffic may be less than the actual speed limit.) So don’t focus on achieving an exact speed. Take quick looks over at the traffic as you’re accelerating to try and match their speed, and look for a gap while you’re doing that. I know it sounds like a lot to do at once, but it becomes more routine the more often you do it. It’s also good, when you’re learning, to have an experienced driver go with you and help you to know how much to accelerate and when a gap is coming up. It’s also good to check your mirror as you’re merging to help you see traffic and see an upcoming gap. And as you’re about to merge, be sure and look over your shoulder and locate the opening you’ll be pulling over into.

[@lizzyberg1082]

@@HowSkills thanks Soo much for your response I think you're right practice is key. I definitely have to work on looking in mirrors and not worry about speed. Thanks again

[@trevordavison7398]

Thank you so much for this

[@HowSkills]

You're very welcome! I appreciate your watching this!

[@EMorton901]

Thank you for making this video! I'm teaching my 17yo how to drive on the interstate and this tutorial is perfect!

[@HowSkills]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching, and have fun with the driving lessons.

[@Dee-gu7te]

Great video, very helpful!

[@HowSkills]

Glad to hear it helped...thanks for watching!

[@nabiflyyy]

I’m driving on the highway tomorrow with my instructor I hope I do good😣

[@HowSkills]

I wish you good luck, and I'm sure you'll not only do good, but you'll do great!

[@nabiflyyy]

@@HowSkills update, I got my driving certificate so I’m FINALLY done💀

[@HowSkills]

That’s awesome! Very glad to hear that, and congratulations on doing good on your test. Thank you for letting know!

[@Calvaire1]

great instructions

[@RatusMax]

How do you lane change on a curve? I hate it so much doesn't feel right...do i just practice?

[@HowSkills]

Practice will definitely help. As you gain more experience, your confidence and skill will increase. As far as a few practical tips, move over into the passing lane well ahead of where the other vehicle is. Don't wait until the last minute to move into that lane. And don't jerk over into the lane; ease over gradually. Once you're in the passing lane, put your focus on the curving road ahead of you in your lane. Concentrate on staying centered in your lane to prevent drifting towards the lane that the other vehicle is in. Don't focus on the other vehicle; keep your main focus on where you're at in your lane until you're past the other driver. Don't pull back over into the other lane until you're well past the other vehicle. Make sure you can see all of the other vehicle in your rear view mirror first, and then ease back over. Hope some of this helps, and I'm certain there wil come a day when this is second nature to you. Take care!

[@sharantagare]

Thank you so much.... excellent video on KZbin for this purpose.. Just 17 dislikes out of 63K views.. It tells a lot about this video.. Thank you again

[@HowSkills]

You're welcome...thanks a lot for watching!

[@johnurbanak9047]

Stan, have written a book

[@HANSMKAMP]

In my opinion, driving on the highway (or in the Netherlands autosnelwegen (free highways without tollgates)) should be a part of driving lessons and the driving test. Then you are familiar with it, when you pass the test, and you are on your own. During the driving lessons, on the highway, you will learn what this video teaches you. The driving instructor will teach you how to merge, how to take over, how to follow the direction signs and signs that announces exit ramps, and how to leave the highway. For me it isn't intimidating at all. I, as a Dutch, drive on Dutch autosnelwegen, but also on German counterparts, the Autobahnen. The rules in the neighboring country Germany are very similar, except that on German Autobahnen you can drive as fast as you want. The speed of 130 km/h (80 MPH) is recommended. I drive 130 km or 140 km (90 MPH) most of the time.

[@arnoldschwarzenegger8005]

John Malkovitch is a driving instructor now?

[@HowSkills]

Lol! Being John Malkovitch is way harder than being a driving instructor.

[@ratinthehat_]

Hello when you say you slow down on the acceleration lane do you physically step on the break or do you just stop stepping on the gas? Thank you

[@HowSkills]

It depends on the spacing and speed of the vehicles in traffic, but it could be either. But most of the time, it's a little bit of light braking followed by some more acceleration as you're making final adjustments to your merging speed.

[@ratinthehat_]

@@HowSkills Thank you very much, going into the highway for the first time soon and nervous, but I got this

[@HowSkills]

@@ratinthehat_ You bet you do! You’re gonna own it!

[@juandavila4534]

Thank you so much!

[@latissuascott3779]

Great video but it only scares to drive coming from a destination sometimes it's very hard to get over

[@HowSkills]

I totally understand. One of my sons had a big fear of driving on the interstate, partly because he knew he'd have to merge. I told him to practice driving and merging on the highway during times when I knew traffic would be lighter, and if he still wasn't comfortable with the interstate, to just take the side roads to school or wherever until he felt ready. The more he drove, the more his overall driving confidence grew, and now he does drive on the interstate when necessary. Don't push yourself to do it if it makes you extremely nervous, but don't give up on trying it regularly either. Practice during times of lighter traffic if you can, and maybe even have someone go with you that you trust, is calm, and is a good driver, to give you tips or advice on what to do in certain situations. Take care!

[@latissuascott3779]

@@HowSkills thanks

[@mandaeanfaith7081]

When you're on an acceleration lane, in that video how much speed limit were you driving, and you changed to the left lane??? Thanks

[@HowSkills]

I was accelerating up to about 70 mph, entered the far right lane, and with my signal still on I entered the next lane over.

[@axiom.ai.obviousbattletank7139]

When traffic is moving at 65mph.. merge into traffic going faster Thebes they are.

[@karenharris3183]

I know some drivers that are stuck on I have the right of way that those cars do not need to get on the highway. They will not change lanes even if a poor motor cycle trying to enter. I understand that we are to move over allow them to get on a highway. Unless we are maneuvering to exit the highway. It a sort of road rage those drivers see no wrong in the anger thy have over right of way. One fella film say it right of way is a given not a taken. means your to allow traffic to enter and leave in peace , not dead .

[@HowSkills]

Yes, a lot of drivers don’t seem to care about people merging and doing what they can to help them get in safely. It’s just common courtesy and decency to move over if you can. Can’t control those people, so just do it for others and set the example. How do those people feel when someone won’t let them in?

[@karenharris3183]

@@HowSkills the one i know feels no concern at all. But I do.

[@beautifulvibes8286]

When I’m driving the interstate do I have to match the speed of the vehicles in front of me driving? If my speed limit is 60mph and the traffic is going 70-75 should I match them? I don’t always feel safe going over the speed limit.

[@HowSkills]

Sometimes (for your safety and the safety of other drivers) you may have to temporarily match their speed in order to get into a gap in the traffic. That's just the reality of interstate driving sometimes. But once you're in the traffic, you can gradually slow down to a speed you're comfortable with, and other vehicles can pass you if they want to go faster. Safe merging requires that you not disrupt other drivers as you merge, causing them to have to slam on their brakes to let you in, or swerve suddenly to avoid hitting you. So use the acceleration lane to get your vehicle up to a speed that allows you to benignly blend into the moving traffic.

[@Rhaman68]

No you do not have to match illegal speeds! I do not and have not had any safety issues. Merging requires several factors as explained in the video. To me EARLY use of signaling is critical. So many wait until the last 50 feet which is dumb. While this video is about drivers merging, the second critical component is the driver on the inside lane that is obliviously ignoring merging traffic, speeding, tailgating and behaving dangerously. Spacing and driving the speed limit is essential. Drive the safe way which is not how most drive as if possessed by some demon. Thanks

[@floatyseagull9472]

Are you allowed to stop on that lane if you need more time to enter a spot?

[@HowSkills]

You shouldn’t stop unless you absolutely have to as it can be dangerous for you and other drivers. But there are situations where that’s necessary and if you do have to stop, pull over and get out of the way as much as possible.

[@Blast1094]

I'm helping my mom drive to south Carolina so I'm gonna be driving like 6 hours I'm terrified

[@HowSkills]

That’s going to be good experience for you though, and after 6 hours, you’ll probably feel more prepared for a road trip in the future. You can do it!

[@Anonymous-cq2dtp]

you sir are a goat 🐐 thank you for all of these videos they are perfect

[@HowSkills]

You’re welcome, and I hope they help out! Thanks for watching and for taking the time to comment.